Court Orders Review on Online Sale of Hookahs

The Delhi High Court directed the Centre to treat a petition against illegal hookah sales on e-commerce platforms as a representation, demanding a decision within three months. The Jagatmitra Foundation highlighted health risks due to unregulated online sales, seeking a mechanism to regulate these products.

The Delhi High Court has directed the Centre to address a petition alleging illegal sales of hookahs on e-commerce platforms without health warnings. The court demanded a decision within three months.

Acting Chief Justice Manmohan's bench acknowledged the public interest litigation filed by the Jagatmitra Foundation. The Court advised the petitioner to approach the authorities directly for satisfaction if the response was deemed inadequate.

The petitioner argued that public consumption of hookahs poses health risks, with secondhand smoke endangering non-smokers. Highlighting unregulated online sales and the promotion of these products, the foundation sought stricter regulations and enforcement to protect public health.

(With inputs from agencies.)